An Ounce of Prevention Goes a Long Way

Posted on 9/30/2016 by Gregory A. Williams

At Greg A. Williams, DMD, your choice for the best dentist Tigard, OR has to offer, we work hard to take care of your teeth. We are firm believers in preventative dental care. We help you when you want to prevent painful dental issues from occurring, and when you need immediate oral care.Dr. Williams and his staff are here to provide ongoing education about daily dental habits as well as establishing a baseline for every patient to help treat and track potential problems that may come up over the time you are our patient. With that in mind, here our preventative care tips to help your teeth and gums stay healthy.

Checking Those Restorations

A big part of preventative care is checking to make sure any existing fillings, crowns, or other dental restorations in your mouth are working properly. If there are cracks or cavities under these types of dental work, it's best to catch them early to avoid any painful future procedures like a root canal or tooth replacement. With this proactive approach, the dental team at Gregory A, Williams, DMD can let you know about any decay that could lead to more severe gum or teeth problems.

Educate Yourself

It is imperative that you, the patient, have an understanding of what is going in your own mouth. Learning about dental processes and terms can help you comprehend the procedures and options that will work best for you. Asking any questions about treatment options is recommended and you may learn things, like that fluoride or an MI paste, which can be applied directly to a cavity to decalcify the enamel, may actually reduce the need for a filling. Many of these kinds of options are available and many advances have occurred over the last 10 years, so making sure you understand what your dentist is doing is always a great idea.[[[H2:Brush Twice a Day (and Floss!)You've probably heard it a thousand times, but brushing two times a day using the correct amount of time and the right method is one of the biggest factors in keeping your oral health in tip-top shape. These days, electric toothbrushes can really help increase the effectiveness of brushing, and our hygienists can show you the proper way to hold your brush. Make sure you brush for two to three minutes every time and cover your whole mouth. Remembering to replace your toothbrush every three months is also an easy way to help keep up your dental health. And don't forget flossing, as it helps remove plaque that can eventually harden into calculus or tartar. Flossing may also help prevent gum disease and cavities as well.[[[H2:Using a MouthguardMany of us grind our teeth, either from stress or other factors. This teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can put unsafe pressure on your teeth. This can result in chipped or broken teeth, receding gums, or even tooth or bone loss. Most often, grinding occurs at night, so asking your partner if they notice you doing it may be a good start. Then the dentist can examine your teeth for signs on your next visit. A dentist like Gregory A Williams, DMD can fit you for a custom mouthguard that will alleviate the pressure on your teeth.[[[H2:Find Your RoutineSince there are tons of dental health options to help with basic care, from toothpastes to mouthwashes, and even more options that your dentist may have suggested, finding an oral care routine that you are comfortable with and that matches your needs is paramount. If you have teeth that easily stain or are extremely sensitive, let your dentist know, and he or she can help recommend over-the-counter or prescription options that help with your individual needs.Please let us now if you have any questions. The friendly staff Gregory A. Williams will be happy to answer them. Click here to contact us today!